Survey reveals growth in West Michigan

Grand Valley State University economist Brian Long conducted a survey into the Grand Rapids economy after monthly studies revealed a stagnant local economy this summer. The most recent study, held over the last two weeks of August, surveyed local businesses to gauge the city’s growth. The results show that businesses have grown.

Long emphasized how the global economy has impacted local businesses, particularly the trade war with China.

“The news media has highlighted the impact on farmers, which has resulted in falling prices for corn, soybeans, pork and other agricultural exports,” Long said. “Many west Michigan industrial firms have come to rely on a wide range of industrial commodities subject to new tariffs that are driving up prices.”

These studies are a part of the Institute for Supply Management, which releases monthly surveys for local businesses in the west Michigan area. The survey covers 45 Grand Rapids businesses and 25 Kalamazoo businesses. Results from the study are then used to analyze the area’s economic growth.

International alliances discussed at Common Ground Initiative

With international tensions escalating, Grand Valley State University hosted the first Common Ground Initiative of the season Sept. 3. The event featured historian Lynne Olson, whose presentation centered around trade, tariffs and global nationalism. Olson also touched on reorganization of international groups like NAFTA. 

This event was hosted by the Hauenstein Center and demonstrated how alliances impact the global environment.

Mantella appears on ‘Michigan Matters’

President Philomena Mantella appeared on Detroit TV program “Michigan Matters” Sunday morning. Hosted by Carol Cain, the show gave Mantella an outlet to discuss Grand Valley State University’s new degrees and how the university’s Detroit Center reflects GVSU’s goals. The broadcast is available on the GVSU website.